CACI International’s optical communication terminal has passed initial ground tests required to compete for Space Development Agency (SDA) satellite contracts. The optical terminal successfully completed an interoperability test, bringing it closer to meeting the technical requirements set by the SDA for its constellation of military satellites in low Earth orbit. The SDA plans to deploy a layered network of satellites for data transmission and missile-detection. CACI is one of several manufacturers pursuing SDA contracts, and its optical terminal will need to pass further tests to demonstrate interoperability with other vendors’ terminals.
CACI Optical Terminals Pass Initial Tests for SDA Satellites
CACI International’s optical communication terminal has successfully completed initial ground tests required to compete for satellite contracts with the Space Development Agency (SDA). The optical terminal passed an interoperability test, bringing it closer to meeting the technical requirements set by the SDA for its constellation of military satellites in low Earth orbit. The SDA plans to deploy a layered network of satellites for data transmission and missile-detection. CACI is one of several manufacturers vying for SDA contracts, and its optical terminal will need to undergo further testing for interoperability.
Optical Terminal Testing and Requirements
CACI’s optical terminal, which is used for laser communications systems, was tested as a supplier of Lockheed Martin, the company selected to build Tranche 1 Transport Layer satellites for the SDA. The terminal established a data communication link with a reference modem built by the Naval Research Laboratory for the SDA program. However, to be deployed on Tranche 1 satellites, CACI’s optical terminal will need to pass a more difficult interoperability test to demonstrate its ability to exchange data with another vendor’s terminal.
Next Steps for CACI and SDA
CACI’s successful completion of the initial ground tests is a significant milestone, demonstrating its compliance with the SDA’s technical requirements. However, further testing is required to ensure interoperability with other vendors’ terminals. CACI is determined to meet these requirements and compete for SDA satellite contracts. The SDA’s layered network of satellites will play a crucial role in enhancing communication and missile detection capabilities for the U.S. Space Force.
